Orthognathic surgery education for severe Malocclusion with skeletal discrepancy: perspectives for graduate students

Abstract

Education in severe malocclusion with skeletal discrepancy effectively addresses facial deformities that affect the patient's well-being through orthognathic surgery. Traditionally, the Conventional Three-Stage Method (CTM) has been used, with pre-surgical and post-surgical orthodontics. However, the Surgery First Approach (SFOA) proposes to perform the surgery without prior orthodontics, accelerating correction and improving facial esthetics immediately. This study compares the efficacy and stability of the SFOA with the CTM through a review of 21 studies. The findings suggest that SFOA reduces treatment time and improves aesthetic perception, although it has less long-term stability, with concerns about recurrence. From a postgraduate educational perspective, training in these methods allows students to acquire technical skills and critically evaluate outcomes and their impact on patient quality of life, preparing future specialists with a comprehensive understanding of both techniques.